SERVES Program Saved

A funding snafu that threatened college reimbursements for Suffolk's emergency service volunteers has been resolved, with the county finding money within its current budget to make up for lost grant money.

The Suffolk Educational program for Retention in the Voluntary Emergency Service, "SERVES," helped make it possible for between 60-70 ambulance, fire, and other emergency service volunteers to continue their education. Federal funds for the program were not forthcoming this year due to the county's failure to apply in time, county officials said, but the program will continue using monies from existing budget lines.

"I'm shocked and dismayed that this program had sunsetted. It's my understanding it happened because of bureaucratic bungling," said Gregory Miglino, Jr., Chief of the Department at South Country Ambulance Company. "This is an effective program for recruiting and retaining members in the volunteer service."

Gregory Miglino, Jr. (at podium) and local officials discuss funding issue with Suffolk County’s SERVES program. File Photo

According to the county Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services, the program provides tuition reimbursement to eligible student volunteers for their service in the county for up to 120 lifetime credit hours obtained from a New York State Education Department accredited college or university within Nassau or Suffolk County. Reimbursements occur on a sliding scale based on grades with 100% coverage if a student achieves an A for their course work, 75% for a B, or 50% for a C. Grade Point Averages of below 2.99 are not eligible.

"Education reimbursement is a powerful tool in helping us staff our volunteer force," said Joseph DeStefano, a commissioner with the Medford Fire Department. "It's quite a commitment to serve in a fire department or ambulance company, and the least we can do is help our volunteers with some of their college costs if they choose to better themselves through higher education." County officials confirmed that money exists within the current county budget for students who apply for the reimbursements.